O’Brien is best known for his novel, The Things They Carried, a National Book Award Winner and Pulitzer Prize Finalist, considered one of the most—if not the most—powerful books about the Vietnam War and war in general.

Local literary arts non-profit So Say We All will present “How To Tell A True War Story,” a showcase of San Diego veteran writers as part of the Literary Festival. 8 voices were challenged with writing about the unseen and unpredictable side of war, the stuff that didn’t make it into the movies, and what they have to say may surprise.

Created in February of 2009 and based in San Diego, CA, So Say We All (SSWA) is a 501(c)3 non-profit arts organization whose mission is to connect local artists with local audiences by producing accessible events in new and unexpected locations.